How to Update from Sierra to Catalina: A Personal Experience

Upgrading your Mac's operating system can be a daunting task, especially when there are concerns about stability and compatibility. In this article, we'll explore the process of updating from macOS Sierra (10.12) to Catalina (10.15), highlighting potential pitfalls, tips, and tricks to make the transition smoother.

Last year, I installed Big Sur on my 2013 MacBook Pro to test the waters, but it was not without its drawbacks. One significant issue was the inability to change column widths in the Mail app's message list. Although I considered installing Mojave on my Mac Mini, I eventually decided against it after giving Catalina a chance.

I currently have two MacBook Pros running Mojave and a new Mac Mini that came with Catalina pre-installed. Since both Catalina and Big Sur only support 64-bit apps, the main penalty for me is unavoidable with either option. Anyone who has used 32-bit apps might find it challenging to transition.

High Sierra was incredibly stable for me, but I remember Catalina receiving criticism for its instability issues in the past. Fortunately, the latest Catalina release (10.15.7) seems more solid now. Before making the leap, I wanted to gather some feedback from others who have made a similar upgrade.

Historically, Apple has made downgrading difficult, so it's essential to approach the upgrade with caution. To mitigate potential risks, I'm backing up my entire hard drive to a bootable volume and planning to install either Catalina or Big Sur.

Some apps might protest against upgrading due to compatibility issues. For example, Aperture still works for me, allowing me to access my organized raw photo catalog. Additionally, 1Password version 6.86, which I purchased from the App Store, is incompatible with newer versions that have switched to a subscription model.

If you're currently running High Sierra (10.13.6) on your iMac like I do, you might be wondering if it's worth upgrading. While there are some benefits to moving to Catalina, such as improved security and performance, the process can be overwhelming for those who are not tech-savvy.

Before making the jump, I recommend reading reviews from reputable sources, such as Ars Technica, and seeking advice from others who have made a similar upgrade. By doing so, you'll be better equipped to handle any challenges that come your way during the transition process.

How to update to catalina from sierra